1903-12-26 — Page 9

THE HONGKONG TELEGRAPH, SATURDAY DECEMBER 26, 1963.

THE HONGKONG HIGH-LEVET, TRAMWAYS CO., LTD.

ANNUAL MEETING.

The nineteenth ordinary general meeting of the shareholders in the Hongkong High-Level Tramways Co., Ltd., was held at the Registered] Offices of the Company, 38 and 4o, Queen's Road Central, on Wednesday for the purpose of receiving the report of the general managers

year ending 30th November; 1903. There were present Messrs. Hart: Buck (chairman), Hegy Humphreys, C. Ewens, A. H., Mancell, G. Murray Bain, R. K. Leigh, W. H. Gaskell, J. A. Tarrant, J. M. Wong, and J. L. Cotton (serrelary).

The notice convening the meeting having been read.

The Chairman said:-Gentlemen, as you have doulless seen the report and statement of accounts I will with your permission con. sideribem a read.. I am pleased to say that our business during the last financial year bas been as good as before and that we are in a po itinn to pay an increased dividend. The improvements to the station at the Upper Terminus have been completed and have given general satisfaction. As you are of course aware our capital-5125,000-dets pol in any way represent the value of our property in fact, if at the present time we were to con 5 ruct smilar line with the same kind of build. require a capital of at least $500,000, which would naturally reduce our present substantial lividend to a comparatively insignificant one. I might add that in view of the fact that almost all the building sites in the Peak district are now built upon we must leaks in the visitors passing through the Colony for any future imp ove neat in our returns, Before moving the adop tion of the report and tatement of accour s I shall he pleased to answer any questions.

that their example may be speedily followed by other European nations. If that is done, China will have an opportunity that she has never had before to proceed on the path of progress, and to base her political institutions on the only sound foundation for the economic prosperity of the country. With a single, but a not un important exception, she now enjoys the terri torial status quo whích she enjoyed before the war broke out that single exception is, of course, the three northern provinces of Man- churia. That those provinces would be restar- ed to China, and that the process of their re-together with a statement of accounts for the stomijon would be a, gradual one, we have known for some time. What we do not know even now and i think the want of information is to be regretted, if for no other reason than that it is apt to lead to popular conjectures and impressions which once formed are very dif- ficult to eradicate re the precise circums Pances which, presumably, made it impossible, for the Russian Government to carry puf, K the exact dates specified in their convention with China, the, explicit assurances they hav so frequently and repeatedly given to ourselves Now, gentlemen, 1 will only add one word more. The past few years have been years of comparative stagnation, and even years of op- parent retrogression in the import trade of this Country with China. I think, perhaps, we are somewhat corapt to fix our attention exclusive ly on the import trade, and forget that that trade will never be established on a really per- manent, and progressive foundation without corresponding stimulus to China's own export trade. (Her, hear.) Well, of course, the iming the various stations. I think we should port trade is that in which we are most primarily interested, and I do not think any one can have read the evidence given before the Steamship Subaidies Committee last year without realising that there are new factors at work which may seriously threaten our cam mercial predominance, even in those quarters i China where hitherto we have had almost an exclusive predominance. That, no doubt, is a very serioits factor, and of course there are some persons-a good many persons at the present time-who are apt to tell us that the retrogression or stagnation of our import trade. is due entirely to the apathy or lack of intel.

Mr. Murray Bai-Gentlemen, 1 have great leasure in seconding that praposition. I think ligenre of our own commercial and man- ufacturing classes. Perhaps it was a superior shareholders, generally, will agree that the person of that kinda philosopher who wished Cpany is in a very goot position foecially, to have a dig at the business world-whoard in every other way. The General Managers originally invented the proverb that "the bird deserve great credit for the way in which ey have minaged the busi ess during the past who laid the golden egg was a goose." How- ever that may he, I think it is impossible to view the increasingly close connection between the spheres of State, action and private en- terprise in foreign countries, without feeling that we cannot pursue the opposite policy-seconded by Mr. Mancell, Mr. C Ewens, the which has been our traditional policy, at home hitherto-without serious risk, unless private enterprise here in all its branches, man. ufacturers, merchants, shippers and capitalists will realise the times, the inter-dependence of their mutual interests, and by acting, possibly through the Chambers of Commerce as an organising intelligence department, will make it impossible for any Government to plead as an excuse either for indefiniteness of aim or vacillation in policy the multiplicity and in- coherence of the advice which it has received. THE CHAIRMAN,

Mr. Gundry, who was received with prolong. ed cheering, said: It is always pleasant, gentle. men, to feel that one has the sympathy of one's audience; but I was certain from the first that

I should have your cordial goodwill in asking you to drink tổ the health of your chairmani, Sir Alfred Dent. (Applause.) [] [ had needed a text for my speech, indeed, I could have found in Sir Thomas Sutherland's allusion

to the traditional hospitality of the China hongs and for which the great houses of Dent and Jardine Matheson were pre-eminent. is al- lusion recalled also to my mind; 'somehow or other, a wicked anecdote of à jamboree at ilaakow, after which one of the men who had been present was found lying, in his dress clothes, in his bath, padding feebly at the water with his hands and con plaining that he couldn't pull up the sheet. Cheers and laughter.) I beg, however, that you' will not misconceive me. I do not for one moment suggest that anyone present is likely to be under any similar hallucination tonight. I think the fact is that my mind was carried back to the long ago days when I first knew Sir Alfred Dent in China, when life was young and Shanghai was young, and everything was possible--even to going to bed in a bath, (Laughter.) He went to North Borned after that, and I lost sight of him for a white till he flushed across the Western horizon again, in l'eru. But the point in his career which more immediately concerns us, to-night is that first China dinner which was held at the Thaiched House Club on March 4 1889, when he was in the bar, and when he branched the project of forming a China Association to the 70 or 8. Chismen who were resent. The idea "caught on"; and a meeting (of which he was also chairman) was held shortly afterwards at 123, Lendenhall-stree, when the Association was formly constituted under the presidency of Sir George Bowen with a committee of whom half have, I gri ve to say, since joined the great majority, it was a fitting climax, therefore, when you elected him this year as your president; but it follows that wher he alluded lightly, in his speech, 19 having been, connected with the Association from its inception he was somewhat under-slating the case. Sir Thomas Sutherland evoked an- other reminiscence by his allusion to my fine Roman hand!. Why, gentlemen, the work of the secretaryship was carried on for the first year or so in Sir Afred Dent's office, fill the Association fuund its legs; and I remember, perfectly, a grimince he drew at a peculiarly untidy letter to the Foreign Office' which i produced under cricumstances of some difficulty in those early days. Few. in fact, are so well aware as 1, how keenly he has interested himself throughou in the progress

and development of the Association. None, there fose, can sympathise more cordially with the gratification he must feel in looking round this evening upon the great gathering in which that first dinner at the Thatched House Club has eventuated. (Applause.) Gentlemen, you will all, I am sure, join with me in drinking mos! cordially to the health of your Chairman, Sir Alfred Dent.

The toast having been most cordially responded to the Chairman said: I thank you from the bottom of my hear for the very cordial reception you have given to the toast of "The Posident" this evening, and for the kind allusions which Mr, Gundry has made to my early connection with the "China 'Association I can only say, what I am certain has been said by every president for many years past, that the whole success of our Association has been largely owing to Mr. Gundry himself. No one has had a more intimate knowledge of all that has been going on in China for the last forty years than Mr. Gundry. As editor of the North China Daily News and correspon- dent of The Timer, and still a constant con- tributor to the Press, he has ke:t us in touch with China in every possible direction, and I an certain I may say that by the many able despatches he has drafted to the Foreign Office he has earned our sincere good wishes for the remainder of his life.

THE UniversalGarette, states, that as "war is Inevitable between Russia and Japán, China bas definitely resolved to co-operate with Japan in opposing Russia,

here being no question the Chairman pro posed that the report a account as present be adopted and passe",

year.

The gatio was carried,

CONSULTING COMMITTEE,

On the proposition of Mr. Humphreys, Han. C W. Dickson, and Mr. R. K. Leigh were re-elected to the consulting committee.

AUDITORS.

The Chainman proposed, Mr. R. K. Leigh secondech and it was agreed that Messrs. W. H. Pouts and Gaskell be re-elected auditors.

The Chairman That, gent men, concludes the business of the meeting. Dividend warrants will be ready after three o'clock to-day. Thank you for your attendance.

..

REPORT:

The following is the report and accounts at the meeting

Tthe shareholders of the Hongkong, High Levri Tranwys 'o., Ld.

Gentlemen,--We beg to las before you the ending 30th November, 1993. rept and statement of accounts for the year

The net profits for the twelve aan bs, after paying charges and all conning expenses, andmaking pro-

acen nu.

And from this has to be deducted remuneration in general managers,

on gross extnings

4.180.39

Leaving availablefurappropriation 340,825.40

|

#1

,, steel rails

Cr.

board, without being touched by his pursuer, Byamount brought forward from last

it would amount to manslaughter. There were year ........... ..................$ ̧ 3,890.13 several cases on the point, one of the best , transfer fees......

4.00 known being that in which the captain of traffic receipts for the yeario dain 86,083.18 sailing ship was chastising a bay with a rope's ..interest

259.78 end, and the lad, in endeavouring to escape. 1,160.85 fell overboard. In that case the captain was liable to a charge of manslaughter. In the $91,497.94 present instance, however, the case for the Crown was not that the prisoner was pursued and that in endeavouring to get away he fell overboard," but that he was pushed into the

JOHN D. HUMPHRYS & SON, General Managers. We have compared the a' ove statement with the books and vouchers of the company, and found it to be correct.

W. HUTION POTTS, Auditors. W. I. GASKELL, Hongkong, 12th December, 1903.

DECEMBER CRIMINAL

SESSIONS.

The following case was decided after we had gone to press last week

Arzo Shamiza, a Japanese, was charged with, on the 12th of December, felgniquely attempting to put into circulation, a counter. feit note of the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Carporation, knowing the same to Prisoner pleaded not guilty," and the fol- towing jury was sworn

be a forgery.

B. J. Spittles, A. Reid, T. C..Downing, W. F. Bassford, S. A. Joseph, E. H. Summers, Y. D. H. S, des Remedios.

The Airney General, stated that on the 13th December the accused went to a shop and purchased goods to the value, of a dollar and a half and tendered in pay-

ment a note for five dollars. No change

W15 available sn

prisoner withdrew and returned later for the same. During his absence it was discovered that the note was forged, and, when he was informed of the fact, he ran away. He was persued and arrested on the present charge. Sir H. S Beakeley told the jury that they must judge if the accused knew that the note was forget when he presented it in payment. Prisoner declared that be ignored

that this was so.

Evidence was given and the jury returned a verdict of "guilty. The Chief Justice sen- tenced the prisoner to two years' imprisonment

with hard labour

DEATH SENTENCE,

Tsang Tin Kwai and Tang Chang, were indicted on a charge of being concerned in the marder if a Chinese woman, Leung So, at Wanchai, on Nng Joth, 1992.

The torney General, Sir H S. Berkeley, (instructed by Mr. H. Hursthouse) prosecuted, white accused were represented by Mt. W. M. Slade.

water,

Evidence was then led.

." I

CHRISTMAS FESTIVITIES.

IN HONGKONG.

26th inst.

covered with silk ribbons, flowers, etc. A bian 1 if the log was always kept in the house till next Christmas, and was supposed to protect the house against fire, though it was noticed that even the most superstitious house». Though Christmas in Hongkong is not at tended with the same pleasures and familiar joys wife gave her chimney a good cleaning some traditional to the Homeland, no evidence was three days previous to the ceremony, to guard wasting yesterday that the inhabitants of our gainst the leaping of these Christmas flames. It was commonly held that ill-luck would fall Colony, both young and old, in all classes of

on the house if the Yule tog while burning was the community, did their utmost to celebrate the occasion with the usual drio, feasting and approached by a person that, squinted or was general fellowship we are used to associate bare-footed-the latter hardly being a likely with the Anglo-Saxon Vuletide. It would contingency in the depth of winter. A woman who was fat-footed was also never allowed have been-difficult, in this part of the world, to Mr.Sharp, who appeared for defendant, stated secure more propitious weather for the holi-to approach flames as sacred almost as those day, the weather being cool, bright and dry; gifts, not in their stocking as with us, but at of Vesta. In Burgundy the children find their that the case was a simple one. The cop'ie died from the results of a blow received in fall-

in consequence of which trippers to Macao, each end of the log, which they fancy grows ing overboard from the Mandiru Maru, and

excursionists into the New Territory and the these playthings as a kind of magic fruit. no one regretted the circumstance more than

members of the numerous yachting and picnic the defendant. He would prove that defendant parties had a most enjoyable day. In Hong bed done nothing unlawful and that death was

"kong itself the festive season was kept up with due to misadvanture. Defendant, a tally-clerk, all the enthusiasm that it merits. The ships in was working at one of the hatches with two the harbour were dressed and carried at their other clerks. They were there to prevent the mast-heads and yard-arms bunches of verdure coolies from "squeezing" coal, an it was that did duty for the absent holly and misletge. therefore natural that these last did not The hotels, police stations, barracks and the regard them favourably. Defendant had been Civil Hospital put on their Christmas gaib, and, obliged to recall several conlies to reweigh their from an early hour, the evident good humour and load. Just before the accident a lump of coal gaiety of all Hongkongites, one chanced to me

Rave proof that the European portion of the the head. It was not known who threw the population had woke up with the intention of coal, and immediately afterwards defendant keeping Christmas in the good old style. saw, or thought he saw, deceased throw another piece. Defendant went over to the coolie with the intention of taking him to the foreman and lice Station last night to hold the annual dance. lodging a complaint. The ecolie ran off the The ball-room was lavishly decorated with flags Pagan nations is to be found even nowadays ship, down a plank, to the shore. While doing and appropriate mottoes, and tastefully festoon- in the Christmas rites of some English counties. so he shipped, fell into the water and was killed.ed with ferns and flowers. The exterior of the In Devonshire hot cakes and cider are offered ball-room and the drill-ground was bedecked as a sacrifice to the chief apple-tree, as a hint Evidence was then led. A verdict of not

with strings of Chinese lanterns, which, as they to it to bear good frult in the oncoming year, swayed in the breeze, added considerably to pistols being let off and songs sung as an the charm of the scene. About two hundred additional reminder. In other districts spiced members of the force and their friends attended, ale is sprinkled on some of the fields, while in and joviality was the order of the evening: Hampshire something of the same ceremony is Inside the ball-room numerous were the dancers go through, to the accompaniment of rough

Thymes. that held the floor, while votaries of the green

was thrown at defendant and he was struck on

guilty was given, and prisoner was discharged

ROBBERY IN THE NEW TERRITORY,

Wong Hing Kwai and Chan. Sui were charged with receiving the proceeds of several robberies which took place in the village of Taitong, in the New Territory, on November a8th. Mr. R. H. Sharp, K., prosecuting on behalf of the Crown, stated that the Attorney General bad withdrawn the charge against Wong Hing Kwan, the evidence against him not being sufficient. His Lordship gave instruc- tions for his discharge and the accused was liberated. Chan Sui, on being charged, pleaded not guilty, and the following jury was sworn: Mesim. E. H. Sammers (foreman), A. H. F. Bune, B. J. Spittles, G. H. May, C. B. H. Schumacher, A. Becker, and W. Domnick.

THE POLICE DANCE.

Shakespere states that at this season of the year, No spirit dare stir abroad," but the Swe- dish peasantry hold a different opinion, for on. Christmas Eve they fancy that witches have more power than usual, and therefore remain. indoors all that night. In case the hens might be affected by the malign influence, and refusa to lay, they are careful to put a little straw' into their nests. A prettier superstition, once universal, is to the effect that for one hour after midnight on Christmas Eve, animals are gifted with reason and speech, while an ancient belief existed that on this day lost souls ceased to suffers, and enjoyed a few hours respite from

Something

Members of the police force met at No. 7 Po..their pains of the old earth worship common

Apples and pears and right good corn Come in plenty to everyone; "Eat and drink good cake and hot ale,

Give Earth to drink she'll not fail.” In Marmion, Sir Walter Scott gives a plea.

cloth found distraction in the card room. Features of the evening were a Strathspray and Reel, Miss Drumond, of Perth, and Reel of Tulloch by Mr. J. Sinclair. In one of the rooms below, an excellent supper was provided and most heartily appreciated by all. The arrange-sing picture of an old-time Christmas, when he ments were in the bands of a committee com-

describes how, //

"The great hail table's oaken face, posed of the following:-Chief Inspector Baker,

Scrubbed till it shone the day to grace, President; Chief Detective Inspector Hanson,

Bore then upon its massive board Chairman; Inspector P. McNab, Vice-Presi dent; Lance Sergeant Lee, Sergeant Floyd; Sergeant Hill, Police Constables Pitt, White. Cooper, and Last. The dance programme Police Sergeant Grani, who is to be congratulated on the excel lent manner in which he fulfilled his duties as Master of Ceremonies. Great praise is due to with Inspector McNab, worked hard to ensure the enjoyment of all present, the success of their efforts being evident in the complete success of the function.

was entrusted

No mark to part the squire and lord." Temporary. equality between servant and master was a feature of old Christmases, and sometimes led to considerable licence in the festival week. A similar custom was observed during the Roman Saturnalia, from which many of our Christmas customs are derived. A

relic of this old freedom is said to exist in

Mr. Sharp, for the prosecution, stated that prisoner was charged with receiving property Consisting of clothing, jewellery and other objects, stolen by a gang of armed bandits on the 28th ultime from two houses in the village of Taitong. The mining goods were found by I'risoners pleaded not guilty, and the follow. the police in the house of prisoner in the village the Hon. Secretary, Sergeant McDonald, who, Cheshire, where the farmers are put to much

of Ping Un. It was probable that prisoner was a member of the gang, but there were only women present when the crime was committed, and these were so terrified that they have been unable to identify accused. The robbers got into the first house, the only occupant of which They seized every- was a sleeping woman. thing of value they could lay hands upon, and then ransacked the house next-door. The total value of the objects stolen was from $63 in $70. Six days later nearly all the missing property was found by the police in the house of the prisoner

At the Magistracy, Chan Sai made a statement amounting to an admission of the crime on which he was now charged. He said he knew the man brought the stolen pro- perty to his house. Evidence was then given

A COLLISION CASE,

ing jury was sworn: Messrs. P. Plage, W. F. Bassford, T. C. Downi-g, J. Q. E. Meyer, E. V. D. Parr, B. Christiansen, and E. W. Terry

The Attorney General said that the murdered woman...was lie concubine of Tsang Mock, The case for the Crown was that the prisoners murdered the woman'nt the request of and after payment by her husband. The bushand was nor in custody as he had departed from the Colony and was now beyond the reach of the faw, and the prisoners stood to answer for what- they had done at his suggestion. The facts were that on May toth, 1902. M: White, who lived in Wanchai, was disturbed by hearing sounds of quarrelling and later on piercing shrieks and screams rang out. He went outside and found a woman lying on the side of the road, with a v sin for nudit s fees, amount to $41,315 66 large wound in her abdomen. Almost imme-by the people who had been robbed and the

To wheb has toe added the

diately after, or a little before he arrived there,palice officers who fund the missing goods balance brought forward from I st

a Chinaman, Ip Sung, came up, and a state and arrested the prisoner. The jury, without 3,890.13ment, Ip Sung alleges, wis made by the woman, retiring, returned a verdict of guilly and His That statement would be put in as evidence, if Lordship passer a sentence of two years' im-

prisonment with hard 1-bour. $45,25.70 permissible. For some time the matter re

mained a mystery, and although inquired into

The Court then adjourred sine die. by the police, no clue could be found as to who it was that killed the woman. The woman died on the day following the one on.which she was found lying wounded. From May until last Octaber no one was charged with being impli Your general managers and consulting com cated in the outrage, but between those months mitee reconnuend that a dividend of $2 per the police had been investigating and ultimate- share be paid 1 shareholders, absorbing, from information received, they were, he $25,000; that $5,000 be written off rolling s ock, believed, en-bled to sheet the crime home to One witness would be called, and St.541.82 off tatrons and shellers; that the ren in 'dack

5,000 be transferred to permanent reserve, and

whose evidence, if believed, would convict the the balance, viz., $4,283.58 be carried to new two men. The prosecution said that the wo profit and loss account.

may's husband wished to get rid of her and employed the two prisoners to kill the woman, and so do what he was afraid to do. The are rangement was kept absolutely quiet and it was enly because later on there was a split between those two that the police became cognisant of what had been done. They would have to rely upon the evidence of one, who, although not an accomplice, knew, on his own showing, what was going on. The man was a witness of the name of Sang Yu Ting and his evidence was the effect that on May 9th the two prisoners went into an opium divan where he was. heard Tsang Sang say that the husband of deceased had recounted some shameful conduct of his wife's and said he would be satisfied if some one killed her. The husband offered the prisoners $30 to kill her, and the divan witness said that he heard them say they were going to kill her that night. Witness then spoke to them and told them it was not a right thing to do, that it was a very serious matter, and so on. They left the divan, but witness remained. He next saw the two prisoners on the night of May (11th, and they told him they had done what they had talked about, and offered him some. money to say nothing about it, which he says he refused to take.

CONSULTING COMMITTEE,

Mt. J. Orarge having resigned, Mr. R. K. Leigh was invited to fill the vacancy, and accepted a seat on the board. In accordance with rule 15 of the Company's Articles of Asso fation the piese.t members, Mr. C. Ewens, the Hon. C. W. Dickson and Mr. R. K. Leigh retire, bai, be ng eligible, off r them

selves for re-clec ion.

AUDITOR..

In the absenc of Mr, Full rton Henderson from the Colony, the accounts have been audited by Mr. W. H. Polis and Mr. W. H. Gustell Mroits and Mr. Gaskell offer themselves for re-election,

JOHN D. HUMPHREYS & SON, General Managers. Hongkong, 12th De ember, 1993.

BALANCE SHEET For the Year ending 30th Novemb 1, 1903.

Liabilities. Capital account: 1.aga shares of $ on

each, fully aid up

..$125, on 00 Permanent reserve fund!

25,000.00 Unclaimed dividends... 34000 Local and General li-bilities .. criven 606 30 Proft and loss: brought

forward........

$ 3,890 13 Profit and lo s; for cur

rent year....

41.315.66

Assis

45,205 79

$201,606.09

At the Supreme Court on Tuesday, the Fuisne Judge, His Honour A. G. Wiss, heard an action brought by the Hongkong Hotel Company, Limited against Wang Sai Kam to recover the sum of $20 in respect of damages caused to a launch by junk No. 197 colliding with it on the 23rd November last-Mr. J. B. Oxberry said he had charge of the hotel launch, and, on the day in question, was return. ing to Blake_Pier with five or six passengers from the s. 5. Siberia. When about yes yards from the pier, he noticed a junk crossing his bows from the starboard side and his coxswain slackened down, allowing the ship to proceed across his bows. Suddenly she dropped her sails and swung round, and, although the engine of the launch was put full speed astern, the junk crashed into her port side and smashed the stern of the cabin-The coxswain was called and said he first saw the Hejunk on the port side, and although his Lord. ship questioned him at some length on the point, he adhered to the statement with the result that judgment was given for defendant.

Evidence was then led, and the jury after- wards returned a verdict of "guilty" against. both men, who were accordingly sentenced to death,

ALLEGED MANSLAUGHTER.

Tasuke Tabai, a Japanese tallyman, was in dicted for the manslaughter of a Chinese coolie, at Quarry Bay, early on the morning of the 8th instant. He pleaded not guilty, and was de- Permanent way, concession and

fended by Mr. E. H. Sharp, K.C., instructed by ded of grant as per last account...$125,000 00 Mr. J. Hays, of Messrs. Johnson, Stokes and Suations, Crown leaseholds and build

ings (Inland Lots, 1,317, 1,332. 1,333 1,334, 1.335. 1.353 and R B. Lot 86)

Rolling stock,,

Fumiture account.......... Coals and stores in hand, Accounts receivable.......... Cath, in H. & S. Rank.. $28,993.29 Cash and compradors' or-

ders in band.

1,873.50

Dr. PROFIT AND LOSS ACCOUNT.

To salaries and wag s......

maintenance and repairs.*******

coals and stores rates, crown rent and fire insur-

ance

.......... godown and station rent $2,100.00

Less aundry rents re

celved!...

*604.67

..

office rent and clerka salaries balance ..........................

CORRESPONDENCE.

We do not necessarily endorse the opinions expressed by Correspondente in ible column.]

THE RACE COURSE.

TO THE EDITOR OF THE "HONGKONG Telegraph."

Sir,--Persons frequenting Happy Valley, men have noted with satisfaction, the various modifications being carried out on the Race Course. Work is now in progress in front of the grand stand, where the water course is being concreted and bricked in, and I feel sure that many persons interested in the training of the animals for the races would greatly appre, ciate any steps which would hasten the com. pletion of this much-needed improvement. At present.considerable inconvenience is occa- sioned by reason of the various materials lying about in all directions, and if the authorities, The Attorney General (Hon, Sir H. S. Ber- could be induced to provide additional labour, keley), instructed by Mr. H. Hursthouse and arrange for, the contractors working over 15.418.25 (Messrs. Dennys and Bowley) prosecuted on

time; so that the improvements may be carried 27.953-99 behalf of the Crown, and the following jury.was

cut with greater expedition, the many ladies 125.00 sworn to try the case :-Messrs. C. L. Gorman, and gentlemen who are in the habit of watch- 1,492.59 Schumaker, A. Reid, G. Rurt, G. H. May, S.

Ing the training--the 'most interesting part of 750.47 Joseph, and J. Christie,

the racing season-would undoubtedly appre- ciate the effort.-—-—Yours, elc.

Master.

CHARIOTEER. Songkong, 26th December, 1903.

MASONIC INSTALLATION.

The Attorney General said it was alleged that, while the prisoner was in charge of a gang of coolies, working coal on a Japanese steamer, 30,666.79

at Quarry Bay, on the night of the 7th Decem ber, a dispute arose between him and one of $101,606.09 the coolies, during the course of which, it was said by witnesses, he pushed the Chinaman over the side of the boat, with the result that the man was killed. The body was not re- Wor, Bro. C. F. Focken was installed on $27,519.20 covered till some time after, and it was then 19th inst. as R. W. M. of Lodge Easter Scoti, 5.261.18. found that the skull was fractured. The case for 913, S. C. (Kowloon), by RW.D.D.G.M., R. 3174-35 the defence, before the Magistrate, and he War. Bro. E. C. Pay, He then invested his 9763 45 supposed it would be the same now, was that, officers as follows-Deputy Master, Wor. Bro. while the prisoner was in charge of the coaling H. B. Bridger; Substitute Master, Wor. Bro, 1,078.64 gang, the coolic was quietly spoken to regard P. D. Hyelt Wor, Sen. Warden, Bro. J. W. the way in which he was doing big work, Graham; Wor Jun. Warden, Bro. D. Harvic; and he became insolent and threw a lump of Secretary, Wor. Bro. II. Horley Treasurer, coal at the prisoner, whis, thereupon, chased Wor, Bro. W.. E. Claret; Organist, Bro. W 1,495.33 him. Deceased in trying to pass over a Orchar; Senior Deacon, Bro. J. J. Sibbit; 3,009,00 plank between the ship and, the whart, fell Junior Deacon, Bro. J. McGlashan Chaplain, 45,205.79 into the water, and the body was not re- Bip. J. W. Osbornes Inner Guard, Bro. R. covered till ichte time later. Counsel pointed Wilson Director of Ceremonies, Bro, C. $91,497,94 gut that. If, que man pursued another, and Fitock Stewards, Bro, C. T. Letton, Bro. W. ibat the ather, la fear of his life, feil "overs | T. Stebbing | Tyler, Bro, Walpole.

inconvenience, because their servants go off in a body on Christmas Eve, not returning to their duties till New Year's Day. The interval they spend in merry making in the city, putting up at an inn at night. This custom is naturally regarded with aversion by the housewives, but the Hongbong servant has improved Upon it, for he goes off holiday making. according to his own sweet will and fancy, and stays away altogether.

ROWING MEN AT DINNER

THE ARMY AND NAVY. As usual, our sailors and soldiers were to the fare in their rejoicings. High Juuketings took place on board the men-of-war in the harbour and the lower deck was feasted in high style. Jack drank to the health and success of his officers, who came down to his quarters and in return, toasted the "man behind the gun. At the Naval Yard, the quarters of the Yard Police were elaborately adorned with bunting, and every preparation was made by its occu

A most enjoyable evening was spent at Kow- pants to have a "right good time." At 11 am. loon on Wednesday, when about seventy nem Rear-Admiral and Mrs. Robinson, Commander bers and friends of the Victoria Recreation and Mrs. Dawes and other officials visited the Club sat down to a capital spread provided by men. The Chief of the Station expressed Mr. J Osborne, at the Kowloon Hotel The his satisfaction at the excellent manner in Chairman of the Club was unable to attend, which they had servad under his orders, comowing, we understand, to slight indisposition, and plimented them on the tasteful decorations his seat at the head of the table was taken by displayed and drank to their health, success

Mr. H. C. Austen, who proved an excellent and well being. The members of the corps substitute, then sat down to an excellent spread and a most enjoyable afternoon was spent.

CHRISTMAS CUSTOMS.

After the dinner, the Chairman proposed the health of the King, and "The Prosperity of the Nor was the Army behind in keeping up the Club," coupled with the name of the Hon. spint of our English Xmas, and in the Sarracks Secretary, was submitted by Lieut. Newman, of al the corps in garrison the non-commis of the Amphitrite, and responded to by Mr. sioned officers and men feasted and feted. Austen, who said the Club was in a flourish The traditional visits were paid to the different ing condition, the members totalling 400. Dut messrs by the officers and toasts were exchanging the winter he hoped to be able to arrange ed No untoward incident marred the general scratch rowing races for the members, and be good feeling prevalent during the day and with announced that, in March next, athletic sports civilian, Jack and Tommie alike Christmas

would take place. He alluded to the com Hongkong was a "rattling good time."

petence of the new rowing captain, Mr. F. Lammert, and concluded by proposing the health of the late Secretary, Mr. F. W. White. The latter, in responding, said that although he was departing from the Colony'shortly, he In the days before histrionic talent had much

would still follow the fortunes of the V. R. O. opportunity to crystallise. itself in theatres, He offered to donate a prize at the next sports many Christmas customs took the aspect of and thanked the members for their cordiality, dramatic performances. We now see large Mr. J. J. Leiria toasted The Visitors; and Mr. beaded pigmies and Christmas fairies while Moller, from Shanghal repiled. The Press wLK sitting at case at the pantomime; but, with our rext honoured by Mr. F. White, and having ancestors, the mummers, who represented to been acknowledged, the Ladies were toasted them a similar form, of amusement, strolled by Mr. F. Lammert. Mr. F. D. Bain responded from house to house, and street to street, some- on their behalf. Mr. Nobbs spoke a few words times-it is recorded even invading the parish

on sport in general, and advised all athletes, church.

huge, who desired exercise, to join the Volunteers, spectacular, entertainment, and the simpler the where they would receive sufficient manual nation, the more noticeable a tendency to training to develope their muscles, dramatise either the event which yesterday celebrated, or some old custom that has become identified with it. Even in these modern days, old customs linger among the less civilised nations. The mountaineers of Servia appoint a Christmas guest, called a "Polaznik," whose duty it is to approach the household this important morning, and announce the birth of Christ. He then scatters com about the door while the housewife, responding, "Verily, He

these

Christmas time was one

Captain Cowlishaw, of the Brilliant, was unavoidably detained, but the ship was repre sonted by the Chief Officer, Mr. Cummings,the Second Officer and two apprentices, The health of the Captain was honoured amid cheers, and Mr. Cummins, in response, said the Cap tain and officers of the Brilliant were delighted with the success of the Regatta, and appra ciated the courtesy of the Club in extending so

HONGKONG EXCHANGE.

is born," dings a handful in his face; but what ibt cordial an invitation to them. symbolic meaning of this action may be is not explained. A lengthy dialogue is then gone through, during which the "Palazník"

EX ITEMENT IN CHINATOWN, receives and gives numerous presents; care. monies of a similar nature taking place during the day. In German villages for the "Polezaik" According to a Vancouver paper, dated 21st is substituted our familiar Father Christmas, ult, in every place in Chinatown where the attired in white, with a gilt or pink belt. But wealthy Orientals of Vancouver mostly con he is accompanied by a retainer unknown to gregate there was violent excitement that English children-a certain Knight Rupert morning. By some subtle way there spreact whose duty it is to carry the huge bag of toys through every section a report that the Hong for his master, and empty the contents.out kong rale of exchange had taken an before the wondering children. A touch of unparalleled Jump. No one knows how neys solemnity is added to the ceremony by the spreads throughout the aristocratic pallens fact that if the Father hears a bad account of founded by False Creek, Columbla avenue, the children. from their parents, he leaves. in Carrall street and Market alley, but Marcozi i stead of playthings, a rod, with strict injune not in it in the matter of quick transmission, tions not to be sparing in its use. In Germany observes the journal. The story that Bothered there is at the same time much more mirth the Chinese financiers was that Hongkong and much more sentinient about, this festival exchange had jumped nearly so per cent, than with us. On Christmas Eve the children When the sun went down Friday evening it offer their presents to their parents, while on stood at about 431 'to-day it was rumoured that

nearly 6o, This fe the day itself the parents give theirs; the it had taken a leap scenes, on both occasions, an on-looker has observed, being very affecting. Quite by itself is, custom once known in an Italian province, where, on this day of peace and good-will, the women were wont to drag all old bachelors into the church and beat them well, as a re- mladez to marry before next Christmas.

a very serious state of affairs to mar leading men in Chinatown, and they on hand when the banks opened this information, The morning, looking for bank officials straightway, informed them that it was a canard, originated in San Fran. cisco. Hongkong exchange is steady and Like many other adjuncts of this season, the closed to-day as it did "yesterday, a fraction Christmas tree, though, associated with Ger- under 44 Chinamen, when the first whisper many, is a relic of Paganism, having been first of the rumour was heard, said that the advance known in Egypt. A palm tree was used by was caused by the declaration of war between this pation at the time of the winter solstice to Russia and Japan, but, their San Francisco symbolise the completed year, as, this plant advisers were evidently away off 'Nanaimo puts forth a branch every month, and by the apparently had a similar experience, judging time mentioned the branches would number from the following despatch: Nanaicho, B, C, twelve. The Yule log had also its peculiar Nov, 21(Special)-There was wild" extite». ceremonies, less observed in England now ment in Chinatown to-day over sudden jump than formerly, and for obvious reasons com. In the Hongkong rate of exchange from pletely omitted from a Hongkong Christmas 34 to 29. The sudden 16 Has create is paid festival. In some places the log really ces among the leading merchants of Chinkorra, sisted of two small oak trees, which were "Lotai blok)'can offer no explanation,